Why It's Important to Find a Treadmill That Folds Up
If you're training for your next race or simply want to fit in an exercise session at home, a treadmill will help you reach your goals. It's important to choose an exercise machine that can be folded up to save space.
To fold a treadmill, raise the deck toward the display. Then turn the knob carefully to secure it.
Compact Design
Foldable treadmills can be tucked away under a bed, in a closet or when they are not in use. They provide plenty of space for running. Folding treadmills are usually cheaper than non-folding ones and can help you keep active on days where the weather isn't ideal or when you're working.
To determine if a treadmill with folds is the best fit for you, consider your goals for fitness and the things you intend to use it for. Some models are designed to be used for walking only, while others can support moderate jogging, or even short runs. Before buying a treadmill, make sure to check the speed range and size.
Non-folding treadmills tend to be heavier and therefore more stable at high speeds. However, folding treadmills also come with a design that could make them less sturdy especially when they are used by runners who are pushing themselves to the limit. Find a treadmill that folds with safety features such as an emergency stop button to ensure you can shut it down quickly in the event of a loss of control.
If you're planning to purchase a foldable treadmill that's safe for runner make sure you choose one with a powerful motor as well as a large deck size. Generally speaking, the 2.5 horsepower motor is adequate for casual runners and occasional sprinters, however serious runners should aim for at least 3.5 HP to ensure they can comfortably run at high speeds. Likewise, look for treadmills with built-in cushioning to lessen the force on your knees, ensuring you can run for long periods of time without fearing injury.
Convenient Storage
If you live in a tiny space, you need to be able to fold your treadmill when it's not in use. Most treadmills that fold up have wheels and can easily be removed from the place you work out to allow space for other activities like when kids come home from school or when you have guests coming over later on. Non-folding treadmills typically need more space as they are designed to be permanent fixtures in your home.
Many folding treadmills are small and space-saving, but they don't sacrifice speed or features. For instance the NordicTrack Commercial 1750 treadmill folds up in a snap thanks to a patented EasyLift assist mechanism. The treadmill features an 3.5 CHP engine and both an incline of 15% as well as an 3% decline.
Sunny Health & Fitness also provides the SF-T7632, which is a treadmill that folds. This treadmill is simple to keep in a cupboard, or under a desk, and is still an extremely comfortable running surface. Its small size and sturdy construction makes it a great choice for people who are seeking a little exercise while at work or watching TV.
If you're thinking of buying a foldable treadmill make sure to read the description of the product for specifics about how it can be folded and put away. You'll also want to look at the frame dimensions and weight along with other transport features like transportation wheels and built-in carry handles.
Travelle Gaines, a trainer at Blocks Nutrition in Los Angeles, informs PEOPLE that one of the biggest obstacles to staying active is not having enough time, which makes a treadmill that folds perfectly for busy people. She says the folding treadmill lets people to run in the morning or after work, or at lunch.
Easy to Operate
The most efficient treadmills that fold can be operated easily, whether they are used for a quick run or a home workout. Make sure you choose a treadmill with simple, easy-to-use controls such as buttons for speed and incline, or touchscreens built-in, according to Victoria Brady, an ACE-CPT for fitness brand Fyt. Find a motor with 2.0-2.5 hp if you plan on using power walking, and opt for one that is able to support routine running if you're an avid athlete.
A good foldable treadmill should also come with wheels, which makes it easier to move it around your space, according to Sydney Bueckert, an NASM-CPT and the lead trainer in-house at Sunny Health & Fitness. It's easier to get on and off a treadmill with wheels. You don't have to worry about moving the treadmill by yourself.
It's also worth looking for a model that offers some extra nice-to-have features like ports for USB and headphone cables, as well as holders for devices. The Echelon Auto-Fold Connected Treadmill, for instance, comes with an impressive and clear display that displays a variety of motivational statistics and lets you connect it to fitness apps and monitor your heart rate, among other things.
Other features to consider are the safety clip, which stops the treadmill from running if someone steps onto it while it's in use, and a deck that automatically folds to a 45-degree angle once you lift it from the bottom of the treadmill. You should also consider a treadmill with a gas shock, which allows the deck to lower slowly and gently, instead of hitting the ground (like some models that do not have this technology). Check that hometreadmillsuk meets the safety standards of your area.
Safety
When choosing a treadmill that folds be sure to check for safety features. Most folding treadmills have the safety lock that holds the deck in place when it is in storage mode. This feature helps prevent accidental release of the deck while the treadmill is being used and also helps keep children from trying to operate the treadmill.
A power cord lock is a second important security feature. This will ensure that the treadmill has been turned off and is out of reach at the end of each workout. This is particularly important if you have kids who might be enticed to turn on the treadmill or play with the cords. If the treadmill is not properly turned off and locked after every use, it may be accidentally powered on or children might accidentally pull the cord, causing the running belt to accelerate.
It is also important to ensure that the treadmill is placed away from objects such as curtains or drapes that might accidentally hang over the treadmill while using it. This could increase the chance of an injury and can create a risk of a trip. It is also recommended to run on a treadmill wearing the right shoes. This will decrease the chance of slipping and falling over objects around your home as well as help you maintain a steady stride when running or walking on the treadmill.
It is also a great idea to fold up the treadmill and secure it before leaving it in a public place like an exercise facility or school. This will reduce the risk of injury for students and patrons who aren't accustomed to the operation of the treadmill or the level of noise in a noisy area.
Stability
A treadmill that folds has a lower center of gravity than a treadmill that is not folding, making it more stable. This means it is less likely to tip over and injure you if you step off the machine or lean too far back. It takes up less space, which is important when you live in a tiny apartment or a home. A treadmill that folds up can be a lot easier to transport. This can be a big benefit if you plan to take it on business or workout travel. It is also a good idea for you to choose an adjustable treadmill that has wheels and a carry handle. This will make it easier for you to move around.
When choosing a treadmill that folds up, it is also important to consider its speed range and incline functionality. If you plan to run on the treadmill, a maximum speed of about 7.5 milliseconds is likely to suffice. If you are an athlete in competition you might require a motor with greater speed.
You should also ensure that the treadmill can be folded and unfolded easily. Some models require two individuals to fold while others can be folded by one person. The instructions for folding the top treadmills should be clear. It is also essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions for regular maintenance and cleaning of the treadmill.
Some treadmills that fold can be easy to store and operate Some are more difficult. Always read the user manual carefully to learn how the machine works. You should then try using the machine before deciding if it is appropriate for your fitness requirements.